In a thrilling finale to the 2023/2024 Nationwide League One (NLO) season’s Calabar center, Ibom Youths FC emerged victorious, securing the sole promotion playoff ticket after defeating P Sports Academy.
Heading into the final-day fixture, P Sports Academy held the top spot in the standings, two points ahead of second-placed Ibom Youths FC. Coach Thankgod Ike’s task for P Sports was clear: secure at least a draw to claim the coveted playoff ticket.
However, Ibom Youths had other plans. The match, held at the UJ Esuene Stadium, Calabar, saw Ibom Youths dominate proceedings from the start, while P Sports opted for a defensive approach.
Despite a goalless first half, Ibom Youths pressed on in the second half, determined to break the deadlock. Their perseverance paid off in the 76th minute when Joshua Joseph, their prolific striker with eight goals to his name, found the back of the net with a powerful shot from inside the penalty area.
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The goal sparked jubilant celebrations from the Ibom Youths FC bench and supporters, including Akwa United FC Chairman, Elder Paul Bassey.
With this crucial goal, Ibom Youths overturned the standings, displacing P Sports Academy to claim the top spot with a 1-0 victory at full-time.
As the dust settled on the Calabar center of the NLO season, Ibom Youths FC secured first place with 23 points, followed closely by P Sports Academy with 22 points, and Sir Monty FC in third with 17 points.
Now, Ibom Youths FC will face the winner of the Umuahia center in a one-game promotion playoff at the Dan Anyiam Stadium, Owerri, on May 27, 2024, with hopes of securing a place in the prestigious Nigeria National League.
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